Lily Simpson started her athletic career in gymnastics, spending most of her time as a top provincial gymnast. After qualifying for Nationals in 2022 she fractured her elbow - and then after a Spring and Summer of rehabilitation she felt stronger than ever. 

Supporting from the Sidelines

Five days before the 2023 Canada Winter Games trials she suffered another injury while executing a routine tumbling pass - a  broken leg - and she wound up in emergency surgery. Being the team player she is, Lily attended the trials to support her teammates and stood with them as the 2023 Canada Games team was announced.

Shifting Focus to Soccer

Lily felt it was time to re-direct her focus to her other passion – soccer. She felt lucky to be called up to the female Phoenix U15 team to compete at the 2023 Nationals. 

She signed up for the 2025 Canada Games female soccer tryouts with no expectations other than to hone her skills. 

Thrilled to have made it through the initial cuts, she embraced the challenge of playing new positions with enthusiasm and drive. After making it through another round of cuts, Lily’s mom recounts Lily telling her “maybe this was meant to be, and I am supposed to get to these Canada Games.”

Lily’s belief in herself and determination to fulfill her dreams were back.

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Making the Team

After 2.5 years of heartbreak and starting over, Lily received the news that she had made the 2025 Canada Games female soccer team! Lily is excited to follow in her dad, Derek’s footsteps. 

He competed at the 1989 Canada Games with the men’s soccer team. Going into the Games Derek’s team was ranked 10^th, and they ended the Games bringing home the bronze medal. 

Seeing her dad’s medal inspired Lily and ignited the belief that Manitobans can compete with the best and do anything they set their mind to.

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